LAUREL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION 2021-2022
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LAUREL COUNTY BOARD OF
EDUCATION
2021-2022
STUDENT CODE OF ACCEPTABLE
CONDUCT and DISCIPLINE
www.laurel.kyschools.us
718 North Main Street
London, KY 40741
Telephone (606) 862-4600
Superintendent Doug Bennett, Ed.D.
Approved by the Laurel County Board of EducationTable of Contents Notification of FERPA Rights ..................................................... 3 Notice of Right to Request Teacher Qualifications .................... 4 Guiding Principle and District Goals........................................... 6 District Staff ................................................................................ 7 Laurel County Public Schools .................................................... 8 Students’ Rights and Responsibilities ........................................ 8 Parents’ and Guardians’ Rights and Responsibilities .............. 10 Teachers’ Rights and Responsibilities ..................................... 11 Principals’ and Administrators’ Rights and Responsibilities ..... 12 Behavior Expectations and Range of Discipline ...................... 13 Assault and Threats of Violence/Notice of Penalties………..…14 Suspensions and Expulsions ................................................... 14 Appearance/Dress Code .......................................................... 16 Athletics/Attendance and Absences......................................... 17 Driver’s License Qualifications “No Pass/No Drive”................. 21 Appeals Provision .................................................................... 22 Discipline Code 01. Attendance ............................................... 23 Bus/Transportation Riding/Behavior......................................... 24 Discipline Code 05. Bus ........................................................... 25 Conduct .................................................................................... 26 Discipline Code 11. Inappropriate Personal Property ..............26 Discipline Code 12. Misrepresentation..................................... 27 Discipline Code 13. Tobacco a n d A l t e r n a t i v e N i c o t i n e a n d Va po r Products………….………............................................... 27 Discipline Code 14. Disruption ................................................. 30 Discipline Code 15. Repeated and Continued Violations......... 31 Discipline Code 16. Disrespect ................................................ 31 Discipline Code 17. Insubordination......................................... 31 Discipline Code 18. Profanity ................................................... 32 Discipline Code 19. Electronic Communication ....................... 32 Discipline Code 20. Bullying/Hazing ........................................ 34 Discipline Code 21. Harassment .............................................. 34 Discipline Code 22. Fighting .................................................... 35 Discipline Code 23. Assault ..................................................... 36 Discipline Code 24. Alcohol ..................................................... 37 Discipline Code 25. Arson ........................................................ 38 Discipline Code 26. Bombs ...................................................... 38
Discipline Code 27. Burglary ....................................................38
Discipline Code 28. Disorderly Conduct...................................39
Discipline Code 29. Drug Offense ............................................ 39
Discipline Code 30. Extortion ................................................... 40
Discipline Code 31. Initiating a Riot ......................................... 40
Discipline Code 32. Robbery.................................................... 40
Discipline Code 33. Sexual Offenses ....................................... 41
Discipline Code 34. Theft ......................................................... 41
Discipline Code 35. Threatening .............................................. 42
Discipline Code 36. Trespassing.............................................. 42
Discipline Code 37. Vandalism ................................................ 42
Discipline Code 38. Weapons and Dangerous Instruments .... 43
Discipline Code 39. Miscellaneous .......................................... 44
Directory Information ................................................................ 45
Students Experiencing Homelessness………………………….45
Emergency Evacuation ............................................................ 46
Exceptional Child Services....................................................... 47
School Meals............................................................................ 50
Student Acceptable Use Policy to Access Electronic Media ....56
Industrial Technologies ............................................................. 61
Cyberbullying…………………………………………………….…62
Interrogations and Searches of Student Property .................... 65
Medication Procedures ............................................................ 66
Student Acceptable Use Policy Agreement Form .................... 67
Public Release of Student Information Form ........................... 67
Verification of Receipt of Student Code of Conduct and
Discipline................................................................................... 68
2Laurel County Public Schools Annual Notification of FERPA Rights
The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and
“eligible students” (students over 18 years of age or students who are
attending a post-secondary institution) certain rights with respect to the
student’s education records. They are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within
forty-five (45) days of the day the District receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school Principal/designee a
written request that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Principal
will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of
the time and place where the record(s) may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records
that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or
in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. Parents or eligible
students may ask the District to amend a record that they believe is
inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of privacy or other rights. They should
write the school Principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want
changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their
privacy or other rights. If the District decides not to amend the record as
requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or
eligible student of the decision and advise him / her of the right to a hearing
regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the
hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when
notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information
contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that
FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits
disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate
educational interests. A “school official” is a person employed by the district as
an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including
health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving
on the school Board; a person or company with whom the District has
contracted to perform a special task such as an attorney, auditor, medical
consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official
committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another
school official in performing his / her tasks. A school official has a legitimate
educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order
to fulfill his/her professional responsibility. STUDENTS 09.14 AP.111 Upon
request, the District shall disclose education records without consent to
officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll
or to other entities authorized by law.
34. The right to prohibit the disclosure of personally identifiable information
concerning the student to recruiting representatives of the U.S. Armed
Forces and its service academies, the Kentucky Air National Guard, and
the Kentucky Army National Guard. Unless the parent or eligible student
requests in writing that the District not release information, the student’s name,
address, and telephone number (if listed) shall be released to Armed Forces
recruiters upon their request.
5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the
requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that
administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office. U.S.
Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington,
DC 20202-4605.
NOTICE OF RIGHT TO REQUEST
TEACHER/PARA-EDUCATOR QUALIFICATIONS
Our district receives federal funds for Title I, Part A programs as a part of the “Every
Student Succeeds Act” (ESSA). Under ESSA, you have the right to request
information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teacher(s)/para-
educator(s). Upon request, the district can provide the following information:
• the grade level/content certification and licensure of your child’s teacher,
• college major and any other graduate certification or degree held by the
teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree, and
• the services provided to your child by para-educators and their qualifications.
If you would like to request this information, please contact Denise Griebel, Deputy
Superintendent of Laurel County Public Schools at (606) 862-4608 or by email at
denise.griebel@laurel.kyschools.us. Please include your child’s name, the name of the
school your child attends, the name(s) of your child’s teacher(s) and/or para-
educator(s) and an address or email address where the information may be sent.
Student Participation in State/District Assessments
Parents/guardians may request Laurel County Public Schools to provide
information pertaining to any state or district policy regarding student participation
in any assessments mandated by Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA,
P.L. 114-95) and by the state or district. Laurel County Public Schools will maintain
available information regarding each assessment required by the state to comply
with ESSA, other state required assessments,
4and if information is feasible to report, district-wide required assessments
through the Laurel County Public Schools webpage
(www.Laurel.kyschools.us).
From the Superintendent
Dear Parent or Guardian:
The education professionals in the Laurel County Public School District are
committed to providing a quality instructional program for your child. General
behavior and disciplinary guidelines are necessary to ensure that every child
has the opportunity for a high quality education. It is the duty and
responsibility of each student and parent to read and understand the contents
of the Laurel County Board of Education Student Code of Acceptable Conduct
and Discipline.
We believe that informed parents and students foster a positive school
environment that is conducive to learning and achievement. The Student
Code of Acceptable Conduct and Discipline will help students to develop
behaviors and standards that are necessary to become a productive and
successful student and citizen. Thank you for your interest and involvement in
your child’s education and helping us to do great things for kids!
Sincerely,
Doug Bennett, Ed. D.
Superintendent
5LAUREL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
GUIDING PRINCIPLE: We care about our students, community and
nation. We are driven to do our part to help build a prosperous future filled
with opportunity for our students. We believe in doing great things for kids!
DISTRICT GOALS:
Learning
Every Laurel County Student will experience instruction that is learner-
centered, beneficial, engaging and focused on developing the students’
academic strengths and interests. Each student will receive preparation for a
successful life beyond graduation.
st
21 Century Skills
Every Laurel County student will be provided with learning opportunities that
develop critical thinking and problem solving skills that focus on a flexible and
adaptive mindset essential for lifelong learning. These skills include teamwork
building, communication, technology and analysis.
Foundational Skills
Every Laurel County student, regardless of starting level, will demonstrate at
least one year of academic progress in Reading and Mathematics.
Communication Skills
Laurel County students will be provided multiple opportunities to demonstrate
their learning through a variety of formats including: writing, speaking, visual
and performing arts and media-technology.
Innovation
Staff and administration will operate beyond the traditional scope of thinking to
develop innovative solutions to drive and accelerate our students’ learning and
achievement.
PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK
The purpose of the Laurel County Code of Acceptable Conduct and Behavior
is to summarize and publish the expectations for the appropriate behavior of
students enrolled in any Laurel County School/Program. This document has
been provided annually since 1985 and is updated and approved each year
after review for necessary changes and compliance with current Board policy
and law. The Board policy document is available in the office of the
Superintendent, in the office of each school Principal, and online on the District
website. Every student receives a copy of the Code of Conduct upon
enrollment annually and parents are requested to submit a signed statement
that they have read it. A digital copy of the handbook is available on the District
website and extra copies are available at each school and the District Office.
6District Staff
Name Position Location Phone
Doug Bennett, Central Office
Superintendent 606-862-4600
Ed.D. Building
Deputy G.C. Garland
Denise Griebel 606-862-4608
Superintendent Building
Assistant Central Office
Tharon Hurley 606-862-4600
Superintendent Building
Director of G.C. Garland
Kenna Williams 606-862-4608
Secondary building
Education
Director of
Accountability G.C. Garland
Jason Faulkner 606-862-4608
and Elementary Building
Instruction
Director of Pupil Central Office
Teresa Smith 606-862-4600
Personnel Building
Vickie Director of Special G.C. Garland
606-862-4608
Nicholson Education/Preschool Building
Chief Information G.C. Garland
Barney Paslick 606-862-4608
Officer Building
Director of
Todd Cox Bus Garage 606-862-4768
Transportation
Community
Central Office
Molly Barnett Education and 606-862-4600
Building
Public
Information Officer
Christie VanNorstran Food Service Central Office 606-862-4600
Building
Director
Central Office
Business Manager 606-862-4600
Adam Hooker Building
7LAUREL COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
School Principal Phone
Bush Elementary Elizabeth Cupp 862---4618
Camp Ground Elementary Terrelle Likins 862---4625
Center for Innovation James Davis, Ed.D. 862---5580
Cold Hill Elementary Melanie Gover 862---4632
Colony Elementary Chad Davis 862---4639
Hazel Green Elementary Brad Mullins 862---4637
Hunter Hills Elementary Brian Bond 862---4655
Johnson Elementary Kelley Mills 862---4664
Keavy Elementary TBA 862---4672
Laurel Day Treatment Tyler McWhorter 862---6605
London Elementary Tracie Smith 862---4679
McDaniel Learning Center Kyle Mink 862---4781
North Laurel High Mike Black 862---4699
North Laurel Middle Steve Morris 862---4715
South Laurel Middle Phillip Jones 862---4745
South Laurel High Jeremy Kidd, Ed. D. 862---4727
Sublimity Elementary Kristina Thomas 862---4692
Wyan---Pine Grove Elementary Jeff Durham 862---5400
The Laurel County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of gender in the
educational programs or activities that it operates, and is required by Title IX of the Educational
Amendments of 1972 (P.L. 92-318), not to discriminate in such a manner. Further, the Board of
Education does not discriminate on the basis of handicap, in treatment, admission or access to, or
employment in, its programs or activities, as required by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-
112), as amended, Section 504; nor does the Board of Education discriminate on the basis of
race, color, national origin, religion, or creed, or marital status, in the education programs or
activities it operates.
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
INTRODUCTION: The protective provisions and safeguards of the
Constitution of the United States and of the Bill of Rights apply to all students.
Certain responsibilities are inherent in all rights. No student or other person
involved in the public schools of Laurel County can realize his/her rights
unless he/she also exercises the self-discipline and care to afford all others
the same rights and does not allow his/her own actions to infringe upon the
rights of others. In a social situation, such as the public schools, all
participants (students, parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, para-
educators and others involved in the educational process) have the right and
responsibility to know the basic standards of conduct and behavior, which are
expected. The school environment is a community of individuals who live and
8interact based upon shared rules, rights and responsibilities, expectations and
common sense.
Student Rights
• To an education that prepares the student (within the limits of his/her
abilities) to reach maximum potential for contributing to the individual’s
welfare and that of society.
• To receive academic grades based only upon academic performance.
• To request an explanation of the purposes of rules.
• To suggest rules or changes to rules.
• To “due process” in regard to disciplinary action, including the right to
hear charges, his/her side, and to appeal decisions believed to be
unjust.
• To expect the school to be a safe environment.
• To protection of person and property to the fullest extent possible by
the school.
Student Responsibilities
• To attend school regularly and to take advantage of the opportunities
offered by cooperating with those teaching and working at the job of
learning and not to interfere with the rights of fellow students to an
education.
• To show respect for the educational process by taking advantage of
every opportunity to further his/her education.
• To responsibly use their freedom in such a way as not to offend the
rights of others with obscene or damaging words or actions and,
within the limits of good taste, to avoid the use of language in a
discourteous, offensive, or inflammatory manner.
• To make suggestions in a positive, reasonable manner, taking into
careful consideration the welfare of all, not just one or a few
individuals.
• To exercise courtesy and reason at all times, to accept just
punishment, to avoid unreasonable appeals and to participate in all
school programs and activities within the limits of capabilities and the
established standards without regard to race, creed, or sex.
• To have confidentiality of personal school records.
• Refrain from making false accusations for petty or vicious reasons.
• To refrain from acts or actions which would endanger self or others,
including property, and to take necessary action to protect self and
possessions.
9• To make the best contribution possible with individual abilities, to
support the school in all phases of program or activity, and to behave
in such a way that participation will be a contribution and not a
detriment.
• To follow established procedures in requesting release of personal
records to persons not legally entitled to such records without proper
consent.
• To report threats and/or behavior that would endanger school
personnel/students.
PARENTS’ AND GUARDIANS’ RIGHTS
AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Parents’ and Guardians’ Rights (Notice: Parent access to student
records will terminate at age 18 unless written authorization exists.)
• To send their child to a school with an environment where learning is
nurtured and encouraged.
• To expect classroom disruptions to be dealt with fairly, firmly, and
quickly.
• To expect the school to maintain high academic standards.
• To review the child’s academic progress and other pertinent
information which may be contained in the student’s personal
folder.
• To address grievance(s) concerning their child and to receive a
prompt reply for any alleged grievance.
• To expect the school to be a safe environment.
• To request and be provided information on the professional
qualifications of their children’s teachers.
Parent/Guardian Responsibilities
• To instill in their child, the value of an education and the importance of
good attendance.
• To instill in their child sense of responsibility and to inform the
child about the disciplinary procedures of the school and
emphasize the importance of the same.
• To become familiar with the educational program and assist the
child with homework activities.
• To maintain regular communication by regularly visiting the school
and being concerned about the child’s overall progress.
• To determine the facts of any situation before passing judgment
and support the efforts of the school personnel.
• To report threats and/or behavior that would endanger school
personnel/students.
10TEACHER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Teacher Rights
• To expect all students’ work to be completed and turned in as
assigned.
• To work in a safe educational environment which is conducive to good
teaching.
• To have the support of school administrators.
• To participate in the development of an overall school environment
conducive to a good learning situation.
• To have process rights as specified by laws and board policies.
• To have the opportunity to develop professionally.
• To be treated with courtesy and respect within the school
environment.
• To direct the learning process of their students.
• To have the right to work in a safe environment.
Teacher Responsibilities
• To help students master the basic skills; develop positive self-concepts,
self- confidence in order to respect the worth and dignity of others;
clarify their values; and make choices that lead to responsible
citizenship.
• To maintain a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning, with
mutual respect and trust, and with appropriate discipline.
• To be supportive of the overall goals and objectives of the school
system/ school.
• To implement the Board-approved curriculum by developing
instructional activities, which meet students’ academic needs.
• To be a model of a responsible citizen.
• To maintain on-going professional development and to employ an
understanding of human growth and development.
• To reply promptly with respect and courtesy to inquiries and
suggestions from parents/guardians and administrators.
• To provide adequate supervision and teaching to students assigned to
his/her care.
• To report threats and/or behavior that would endanger school
personnel/students.
11PRINCIPAL AND ADMINISTRATOR RIGHTS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
Principal and Administrator Rights
• To have sufficient staff, facilities, and supplies needed for a safe
educational program within available resources.
• To expect a n d receive a d e q u a t e s u p p o r t f r o m t h e Board
o f Education and administrative superiors in administering
school/programs.
• To expect staff members to comply with policies and directions.
• To expect t h e support o f students,’ p a r e n t s a n d teachers
i n carrying out the educational program established by the school
system.
• To have a complete written and oral description of professional
duties and responsibilities.
• To have reasonable rights and be fair in dealing with matters
relating to the operation and implementation of program(s) or
school activities
• To have the opportunity to develop professionally.
• To have the right to work in a safe environment.
Principal/ Administrator Responsibilities
• To work closely with superiors to assure the adequacy and wise
expenditure of educational funds.
• To keep superiors properly informed so that staff, facilities, and
supplies are adequate within available resources.
• To suppor t s t a f f i n any c o n f l i c t o r controversy w h e n t h e y
a r e properly carrying out policies of the Board or the local school.
• To meaningfully i n v o l v e p a r e n t s a n d students i n a
cooperative sharing of the school program and environment.
• To follow job descriptions, board policies and seek guidance when
appropriate.
• To give prompt and responsible feedback in a constructive manner.
• To pursue professional development through participation in school
district and other in-service endeavors.
• To report threats and/or behavior that would endanger other
personnel/students.
• To notify parents they have the right to request information on the
professional qualifications of their children’s teachers.
• To provide parents, when requested, information regarding the
professional qualifications of their children’s teachers.
12BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS AND
RANGE OF DISCIPLINE
Acceptable Behavior is expected at all times by all students. In the event that
something other than acceptable behavior occurs, the following practices are
in place according to law and district and school rules to address the situation
and apply appropriate discipline. Corporal punishment is prohibited in the
Laurel County Public Schools by Board Policy.
A district-wide practice of in-school suspension, after-school detention, out-of-
school suspension and Saturday School Detention may be administered to
students who continue with unacceptable behavior. For severe or continuing
rule violation, these students may be assigned to the Laurel County Day
Treatment Program. Upon enrollment at Day Treatment students are not
permitted to attend or participate in school sponsored activities. Prohibited
participation may include, but is not limited to athletics, dances/proms,
driving/parking privileges, academic team, ROTC, Cooperative Education, and
graduation ceremony.
P-5 elementary schools will determine an appropriate alternate punishment for
habitual misbehavior. The age and maturity of the child will be considered
when determining discipline action. When a student continues to violate
established rules and regulations, stricter measures may be taken.
Pursuant to KRS 160.345 the Site Based Decision Making Council of each
school has the authority to increase disciplinary sanctions or establish other
sanctions not addressed by the Board of Education.
The range of discipline for misbehavior includes but is not limited
to the following:
1. Student/Administrator/Parent Conference
2. Loss of Privileges
3. Counseling Services
4. Intervention Services/Referrals
5. Loss of Bus Privileges/ Driving/Parking Privileges
6. Confiscation
7. After-School Detention
8. In-School Suspension
9. Saturday School Detention
10. Out of School Suspension
11. Appropriate Educational Setting
12. Day Treatment
13. Expulsion
14. Other Actions as Deemed Appropriate by the School Board
13Assault and Threats of Violence
Notice of Penalties and Provisions
There are serious penalties for this second degree terroristic threatening offense.
Potential penalties upon conviction of this Class D felony include a term of
imprisonment of not less than one (1) year nor more than five (5) years and a fine of
not less than one thousand ($1,000) and not greater than ten thousand ($10,000) as
provided in KRS 532.060 and KRS 532.030, respectively. In addition, a court in a
juvenile case dealing with charges based on bomb threats or other criminal threats that
disrupt school operations may order the child or his parent(s) to make restitution (pay
expenses) caused by the threat to parties such as the District or first responders (KRS
635.060).
KRS 508.078 (TERRORISTIC THREATENING, SECOND DEGREE)
1. A person is guilty of terroristic threatening in the second degree when, other
than as provided in KRS 508.075, he or she intentionally:
a) With respect to a school function, threatens to commit any act likely to
result in death or serious physical injury to any student group, teacher,
volunteer worker, or employee of a public or private elementary or
secondary school, vocational school, or institution of postsecondary
education, or to any other person reasonably expected to lawfully be on
school property or at a school-sanctioned activity, if the threat is related
to their employment by a school, or work or attendance at school, or a
school function. A threat directed at a person or persons or at a school
does not need to identify a specific person or persons or school in order
for a violation of this section to occur;
b) Makes false statements by any means, including by electronic
communication, for the purpose of:
1. Causing evacuation of a school building, school property, or school
sanctioned activity;
2. Causing cancellation of school classes or school sanctioned
activity; or
3. Creating fear of serious bodily harm among students, parents, or
school personnel;
c) Makes false statements that he or she has placed a weapon of mass
destruction at any location other than one specified in KRS 508.075; or
d) Without lawful authority places a counterfeit weapon of mass destruction
at any location other than one specified in KRS 508.075.
2. A counterfeit weapon of mass destruction is placed with lawful authority if it is
placed as part of an official training exercise by a public servant, as defined in
KRS 522.010.
143. A person is not guilty of commission of an offense under this section if he or
she, innocently and believing the information to be true, communicates a
threat made by another person to school personnel, a peace officer, a law
enforcement agency, a public agency involved in emergency response, or a
public safety answering point and identifies the person from whom the threat
was communicated, if known.
4. Terroristic threatening in the second degree is a Class D felony.
SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS
Students shall not be suspended until after the following due
process procedures have been followed:
1. The student has been given oral or written notice of the charges against
him/her and the charges have been explained if the pupil denies them.
2. The student has been given an opportunity to present his/her own
version of the facts relating to the charges.
3. The principal or assistant principal may suspend a student immediately
without taking the two proceeding steps if such action is necessary to
protect persons or property, or to avoid disruption of the ongoing
academic process. In such cases, the due process procedures outlined
in number 1 and 2 above shall follow the suspension as soon as
possible, but no later than three (3) school days after the beginning
date of the suspension.
4. When a student is suspended, notice must be provided to the
parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the student, and the
Superintendent.
5. The Laurel County Board of Education has the right to place a student
at a particular school if, in the opinion of the Board, the safety and
welfare of that student or other students in the Laurel County Public
Schools is served by that placement. The Laurel County Board of
Education may impose conditions of school attendance in lieu of
expulsion.
6. The Board of Education may expel a student for misconduct as defined
above, but expulsion shall not be taken until the parent/guardian, or
person having legal custody of the student has had an opportunity to
have a hearing before the Board. The hearing shall be held within 10
school days. The decision of the Board shall be final.
15APPEARANCE/DRESS CODE
The purpose of this dress code is to help ensure student safety and to remove
any barriers or distractions to the learning process. Schools are educational
institutions, and no extreme form of personal appearance will be allowed to
interfere with the educational process. School authorities may limit or prohibit
any extreme type or style of student dress, personal appearance, or use of
wearing apparel, which, in the judgment of school officials, is deemed to create
a disruption of school discipline and routine, or creates a safety hazard. Good
personal appearance is conducive to a positive learning environment. This
dress code promotes proper grooming and hygiene, instills discipline, prevents
disruption, conforms to safety guidelines, and teaches respect for authority.
Proper dress by students and staff is expected at all times. All individuals are
to come to school clean and neatly dressed. Apparel must meet with health
and safety codes, be in good repair, and must not interfere with the
educational process.
1. No shoes with cleats, spurs, nails, wheels or anything else that may
create a safety hazard.
2. No bare feet.
3. Article of clothing, jewelry, body decoration, or hairstyle extreme
enough to create distraction or disturb the normal routine of school
shall be deemed inappropriate.
4. No halters, spaghetti straps, one-shoulder tops, low cut tops, or bare
midriffs.
5. No hats, caps, overcoats or bandannas are allowed unless they are
part of an approved educational activity.
6. Shirts must cover the body to the waist and must come to the edge of
the shoulder.
7. No articles of clothing with wording, pictures, symbols, or graphics
that, either implied or suggested, contain inappropriate language,
violence, obscene or sexual connotations, alcohol, narcotics, firearms,
or tobacco messages.
8. Trousers/slacks/pants must be belted at the natural waist. Pants shall
not be excessively long enough to cause a safety hazard.
9. No undergarments may be exposed.
10. Dark glasses, unless prescribed by a physician, are prohibited inside
the building.
11. Any accessory or clothing article, deemed gang related, as determined
by the administration, is prohibited.
12. Garments designed for outerwear must be hemmed or cuffed.
13. Tattoos that are vulgar or that display items related to drugs, alcohol,
or gang symbols, or that are racially or sexually offensive are to be
covered and non-visible at all times.
1614. School-level administration shall determine any questionable attire.
15. No student shall wear nose, eyebrow, lip, or tongue rings, studs or
piercings that create a distraction or safety hazard.
ATHLETICS
All rules and regulations concerning qualifications for participation in school
athletics is addressed in the Athletic Handbook. Copies are distributed
annually and are available on the district website www.laurel.kyschools.us.
Student athletes and their parents must sign and submit to their school the
statement provided in the handbook acknowledging that they have read the
handbook and agree to comply with all that is stated therein. Students must
submit annually a copy of a physical examination to the head coach of the
sport in which the student participates.
KINDERGARTEN ENTRANCE
Beginning with the 2017-2018 school year per KRS 158.030 a child must be 5
years old by August 1 to enroll in kindergarten.
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCES
A local board of education may adopt reasonable policies that require students
to comply with compulsory attendance laws, that require truants and habitual
truants to make up unexcused absences, and that impose sanctions for
noncompliance. However, the following rules and regulations do not take
precedence over the truancy laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Kentucky Compulsory Attendance
KRS:159.010 requires a parent or guardian or any other person residing in the
state and having charge of any child who has entered the primary school
program or any child between the age of six (6) and eighteen (18) to send the
child to school. They shall send the child to a regular public day school for the
full term that the public school of the district in which the child resides is in
session, or to the public school that the board of education of the district
makes provision for the child to attend.
Drop-out Age
th
Any child who has not reached their 18 birthday by the beginning of the
2 0 2 0 - 2 0 2 1 school year are required to enroll in school.
The Laurel County School System recognizes the direct relationship between
attendance and achievement. We firmly believe that attendance is a student-
17parent responsibility. The progress of a student at school depends greatly on
the punctuality and regularity of attendance. All students are expected to
attend class every day school is in session. It is desirable that every student
should be in the designated area five (5) minutes prior to the beginning of
school. Also, each student should be in class on time.
In the event of unavoidable absences, students are required to make up all
missed work and to provide appropriate excuse as defined below. Students
missing excessive days of instruction by continuously submitting doctor
excuses may be subject to investigation by Truancy Officers. (See
Absenteeism Limits)
If, due to an illness or an injury, it is believed that a student will be absent
from school for five or more days, parents or guardians must make efforts to
refer the child for Home/Hospital instruction. Home/Hospital referral forms, to
be completed by the attending medical authority, will be provided to the
attending physician of the student by the Home Hospital Instruction office.
Excessive Absences
KRS 159.150 defines truancy as follows. Any child who has been absent from
school without valid excuse for three (3) or more days, or tardy without valid
excuse on three (3) or more days is a truant. Any student who has attained the
age of eighteen (18) years, but has not reached his/her twenty-first (21st)
birthday, who has been absent from school without valid excuse for three (3)
or more days is a truant. Any student who is absent for sixty (60) minutes or
less of the regularly scheduled school day is tardy. Any student who has been
reported as a truant two (2) or more times (6 unexcused absences) is a
habitual truant.
Excused Absences
A student is expected to regularly attend school and to be punctual. If a
student receives an excused absence, it shall be the student’s responsibility to
ask for make-up work from the teacher. The student will have one day to make
up work missed for each day of school missed. Students leaving school early
shall have their absences excused only for reasons designated in this policy
as qualified excused. Information provided on a sign-in, sign-out office form
will not be accepted as an excuse. Upon returning to school, a student must
present a written excuse to the principal/designee within two (2) school days.
All excuses not presented during this time frame will be ruled unexcused. The
following information must be on all excuses:
• the student’s full name
• date(s) he/she was absent
• the reason for the absence
• the parent’s/guardian’s signature.
All Laurel County Public Schools will accept 8 parent notes for absences in the
event of illness up to two consecutive days for a maximum of 8 notes per year
18(1 day = 1 parent note). In the event of an infectious disease, the Principal
may determine allowable days. Illness lasting 3 or more consecutive days
shall be considered excused if the student has a doctor’s statement or hospital
slip. Students/Parents under court orders or who have truancy allegations
pending with the CDW are not allowed parent notes. Forged parent notes may
result in parent notes being disallowed. The principal/designee or Director of
Pupil Personnel may make this ruling.
Acceptable reasons for absences include but are not limited to:
1. Student illness accompanied by a parent note submitted within 2
school days of last day absent.
2. Student illness for three (3) or more consecutive days shall be
considered excused if the student has a doctor’s statement/hospital
slip. In the case of chronic illness one doctor statement will suffice.
3. Medical or dental appointments that cannot be made after school
hours. The student must provide verification by a slip from the doctor
confirming the date and time of the appointment. In the event an
appointment is early or late in the school day, the entire day may
not be excused.
4. Serious illness in immediate household.
5. Order of a court.
6. Death in the immediate family (limited to 3 days except extenuating
circumstances as determined by the Principal.)
7. Natural disaster beyond control of student.
8. Religious holidays and practices.
9. Interviews for college or vocational school. Requires pre-approval by
school official and verification of interview.
10. Tests administered by school counselors or college personnel.
Requires documentation of attendance.
11. Driver’s license or permit (1/2 day for each.)
12. Documented military leave.
13. One (1) day prior to departure of parent/guardian called to active
military duty.
14. One (1) day upon the return of parent/guardian from active military
duty.
15. Trips qualifying as educational enhancement opportunities, as
determined and approved by the Principal. Such opportunities shall
be determined by the Principal to be of significant educational value
and involve intensive instructional, experiential or performance
programs in one or more core curriculum subjects.
16. Illness that occurs at school is determined and documented by school
officials.
19Absenteeism Limits
• After a student has accumulated three (3) unexcused absences, the
Principal/Attendance Clerk will notify the parent(s) by mail.
• At six (6) unexcused absences, the Principal/Attendance Clerk shall notify
the parent(s) by mail and hold a parent conference (in person or via phone).
• After a student has accumulated additional unexcused absences after the
six-day letter was sent, then the Principal/Attendance Clerk shall notify the
Pupil Personnel Department. The Director of Pupil Personnel shall notify
the parents by sending a final notice letter by certified mail. The final notice
remains in effect for one calendar year from the date it was issued.
• At nine (9) unexcused absences, the Principal/Attendance Clerk shall the
notify the parent(s) by mail. Other interventions such as calls, home visits,
and conferences may be attempted to find solutions to the truancy. The
school will also notify the Pupil Personnel Department.
• The Principal/Attendance Clerk shall notify the parent(s) by mail and the
Pupil Personnel Department when a student has been absent twelve (12)
unexcused days. The Director of Pupil Personnel will schedule a
conference with the parent/guardian(s).
• If a student accumulates six (6) or more additional unexcused absences
after the final notice was sent, educational neglect or truancy charges may
be filed in the court system.
Excessive Medical Excuses - Students submitting excessive doctor
excuses will be investigated by Truancy Officials, and parents may be required
to sign a Release of Medical Information form to assist in the investigation.
During the investigation, Truancy Officials will consider the student’s
attendance history, information obtained from medical professionals, and any
attempts made by the parent/ guardian to prevent disruption of the educational
process. Truancy Officials will utilize information from the investigation to
reconsider any of the days previously excused. Truancy Officials have the
authority to conduct such investigations and assign unexcused status to days
the child could have been at school.
Limit on Doctor Excuses - Students (except those under a court order to
attend school) will be allowed twelve (12) absences per year with typical
doctor/medical excuses. Any absences over the twelve-day limit will require
more than a typical doctor/medical excuse. Medical proof such as a diagnostic
sheet or statement from a physician will be required before the absence will be
considered for excused status. In some cases, parents may be asked to sign a
Release of Medical Information Form.
20Court Ordered Students – Parents of students under a District or Family
Court order to attend school, and parents of students who have truancy
allegation filed with the CDW, may be required to sign a Release of Medical
Information Form, cannot submit parent notes, and must submit more than a
typical doctor excuse. Detailed diagnostic sheets and/or a statement from a
physician are required. In some instances, attendance staff will contact medical
providers to investigate any medical documents that have been submitted to the
school.
Extended Illnesses, Injuries or Accidents – Home/Hospital Instruction
(HHI) is a temporary, short term program designed to provide educational services
to children unable to attend school due to medical reasons. If a student is
expected to miss 5 or more consecutive days due to illness or injury, the parent
must contact the Home/Hospital Instruction Office at 606-862-4600 to request an
application be sent to the student’s attending physician. Completion of an
application for Home/Hospital services requires approval by the HHI committee
and does not guarantee the application qualifies for services. Any parent allowing
excessive medical absences without contacting the HHI office is advised that
excessive days absent may not be excused.
Unexcused Absences
If a student has an unexcused absence, the grade for that day in any content
class will be a zero. Students may not make-up work, exams, tests, quizzes,
assignments, etc., which would have been completed for credit in any class for
any day in which an absence is unexcused except by waiver of a favorable
attendance appeal. (See Appeals Provision Section) The Principal has discretion
to allow a student to complete make-up work, exams, tests, quizzes, assignments,
etc., during any period of suspension. In the event of a suspension pending a
Board expulsion hearing, the Board may exercise the same discretion.
Driver’s License Qualification “ N o P a s s / N o D r i v e ”
KRS 159.051 is a law related to a student’s license or permit to operate a
motor vehicle. Students age sixteen (16) and seventeen (17) may have their
operator’s license, intermediate license, permit, or privilege to operate a motor
vehicle revoked or denied if they:
• Drop out of school
• Are declared to be academically deficient
• Have 9 or more unexcused absences in the preceding semester
(including suspensions)
• Have not received passing grades in at least four (4) courses in
the preceding semester
21Appeals Provision
In the event that any parent, guardian, custodian, teacher or principal seeks to
request an attendance appeal of unexcused absences, the form “ATTENDANCE
WAIVER REQUEST” shall be completed and given to the school principal for
action. The School/Site Based Attendance Appeals Committee shall meet monthly
to hear appeals. All requests for appeals must be made within the grading
period or within two weeks of the end of the grading period. All parties shall
be given written notice of the date, place and time of the Committee meeting and
shall be given the opportunity to present evidence in support of their respective
positions. Parents shall be informed in writings as to the decision of the
Attendance Committee, setting forth the reasons for the decision, within a
reasonable time. In the event, an appeal is granted, the student will be
allowed to make up work however, the absence will still be considered
unexcused.
The School/Site Based Appeals Committee shall be appointed by the principal
and composed of (minimum membership) principal or designee and two (2)
teachers. The School/Site Based Appeals Committee will hear appeals on
unexcused absenteeism only. The committee will only rule on those cases that
are appealed. A record, written or tape recorded, shall be made of the hearing. In
order to request an appeal for any case not waived, the request shall be made in
writing to the Director of Pupil Personnel within five (5) working days after the
decision of the School/Site Based Appeals Committee.
The District wide Appeals Committee shall be appointed by the Superintendent
and be composed of: the Superintendent or his/her Designee, one principal from
the school in which the student is enrolled, three teachers-one high school, one
middle school, and one elementary. Each teacher representative shall be
appointed for three (3) years. Alternated shall be appointed for each appointee.
The Superintendent or his/her designee shall be a permanent member and
permanent Chairperson.
The District Wide Appeals Committee will meet once each school month. The
Appeals Committee will hear appeals on unexcused absenteeism only. All
parties concerned shall be given notice of the date, place and time of said
hearing, and shall be limited to review of the record made at the hearing
before the School/Site Based Appeals Committee. If the District Wide Appeals
Committee deems it potentially helpful to their decision, they may invite a hearing
before the School/Site Based Appeals Committee or invite hearing further
evidence, written or otherwise, giving the adverse party the opportunity to
respond. Such decision shall be within the discretion of the District Wide
Attendance Appeals Committee. This committee shall not hear appeals based on
other criteria however, decisions shall include examination of excused and
unexcused absences and past attendance reports of individual students. In
instances not specifically included in this document, or covered by School Board
22Policy in other documents, this committee shall render a decision following, to the
best of their ability, the intent of this policy. No member of either Committee
described above should discuss the matter with the parent or teacher involved
except during the committee meeting.
The standard for appeal shall be the decision of the Appeals Committee and
shall be affirmed by the Board of Education unless it is found to be clearly
erroneous. The parent/guardian or teacher/principal may make written
statements to the Board of Education within five (5) working days after the
decision of the District Wide Attendance Appeals Committee.
DISCIPLINE CODE 01. ATTENDANCE
Behavior Definition Discipline Action
Range
A. Tardiness Failure to be in place of Conference to
instruction at the suspension
assigned time without a Referral to D.P.P.
valid excuse
B. Class cutting Failure to report to class Conference to
without proper suspension
permission, knowledge
or excuse by the school
or the parent
C. Truancy Failure to report to Conference to
school without prior referral to D.P.P.
knowledge and/or
brought to school by
police
D. Leaving School Failure to have been Conference to
granted permission to suspension
leave grounds without
permission from the
Administrative Office.
23BUS/TRANSPORTATION RIDING/BEHAVIOR
Transportation to and from school and School Sponsored/Related travel
is a privilege and not a right for every student. To participate in this privilege
students must adhere to acceptable behavior. Violation of acceptable behavior
will result in disciplinary action including the potential removal of bus riding
privileges. A school bus suspension is not an excused absence from school.
Students will be expected to be at school each day of their suspension.
Students who are serving a bus suspension may be permitted to ride a bus for
educational and reward field trips.
While riding a bus, students are subject to all other district rules as well as
those which would apply specifically to incidences while on the bus. Violations
are not limited to the list below.
24DISCIPLINE CODE 05. BUS
Behavior Definition Discipline
Action
Range
A. Throwing items Conference to Bus
on the bus Suspension/
School expulsion
B. Smoking and use of Conference to
tobacco/alternative Bus
nicotine or vape Suspension
products, includes t h e
use of electronic smoking
devices.
C. Fighting on bus. Conference to
Bus Suspension/
school expulsion
D. Assault on another Conference to Bus
student or endangering Suspension/
the safety of school expulsion
other students
E. Abusiveness to Verbal Conference to
driver Bus
Suspension
F. Abusiveness to Physical Conference to Bus
driver Suspension/
school expulsion
G. Changing seats while Conference to
bus is in motion or Bus
having arms and/or Suspension
head out of windows.
H. Destruction of school Conference to Bus
bus. Suspension/
school expulsion
I. Excessive Conference to
noise/mischief/ Bus
inappropriate language Suspension
and/or gestures.
J. Failure to face forward Conference to
or remain in seat or Bus
assigned seat. Suspension
25CONDUCT
Students are expected to maintain respectful behavior toward all adults and
classmates at all times. In the event that norms of expected behavior are
violated the following consequences apply:
DISCIPLINE CODE 11. INAPPROPRIATE PERSONAL PROPERTY
Behavior Definition Discipline Action
Range
A. Food/Beverage No open containers. Conference to
No consumption or suspension with
unauthorized confiscation
possession of food
and beverages in an
unauthorized area
such as classrooms,
buses, auditorium etc.
B. Clothing Wearing hats, Conference to
scarves, head covers, suspension with
large coats or any confiscation
inscription inside a
school building except
when worn because
of religious beliefs;
when worn in
connection with
school sponsored
programs such as
R.O.T.C. graduation
exercises, or
theatrical productions
C. Toys Possess any toys, Conference to
games etc., without suspension with
permission of the confiscation
administration
D. Drug Look-Alikes Possessing any Conference to
substances being expulsion
portrayed as illegal
substances
E. Other Possession of any Conference to
object that has no suspension with
purpose to be in confiscation
school and may
distract from teaching
and learning
26DISCIPLINE CODE 12. MISREPRESENTATION
Behavior Definition Discipline Action
Range
A. Altering Notes Tampering with Conference to
official passes, suspension
notes in any
manner, including
forging names to
any legitimate
excuses or related
documents
B. False Information Making false Conference to
statements, written expulsion
or oral, to any one in
authority
C. Cheating/Plagiarism Violating rules of Conference to
honesty, such as, expulsion
copying another
student’s test,
assignment etc.
D. Other Passing of any false Conference to
statements, or expulsion
information,
including name to
anyone in authority
DISCIPLINE CODE 13. TOBACCO PRODUCTS/ALTERNATIVE NICOTINE OR
VAPING PRODUCTS
The Laurel County School System is dedicated to maintaining an orderly and
healthy environment for students and employees. The following regulations
are necessary to establish such an environment.
I. Students may not use or be in possession of any tobacco product(s)
and/or al t er nat i ve ni cot i ne, vapi ng pr oduct s or electronic
smoking devices anywhere on school grounds. The use of any
tobacco product/electronic smoking device is prohibited at all times in
any building owned or operated by the Board.
II. The following disciplinary methods will be used in dealing with
Violators:
a. First offense (use or possession) – confiscation of the tobacco
a n d a l t e r n a t i v e n i c o t i n e , o r v a p o r product(s) and
Conference to Suspension.
b. Second offense (use or Possession) – confiscation of the
tobacco, a l t e r n a t i v e n i c o t i n e , a n d / o r v a p o r
r e l a t e d product(s) and Conference to Suspension.
27c. Third offense – confiscation of the tobacco, a l t e r n a t i v e
n i c o t i n e o r v a p i n g product(s) and Detention to
Suspension. Additional violations will result in increased
penalties.
III. School personnel will be on duty to prevent the use of tobacco a n d
a l t e r n a t i v e n i c o t i n e , o r v a p o r r e l a t e d p r o d u c t s by
students on school grounds. The following is a list of some of these
measures.
a. Students will be dismissed from class only when absolutely
necessary.
b. Restroom facilities will be monitored through the use of smoke
devices and periodic monitoring by staff.
c. Bus loading and unloading will be strictly supervised under
direction of the principal.
IV. Athletics: Athletes may not be in possession of, or use tobacco
or tobacco related products (including alternative nicotine or
vaping products) products during practices or games.
V. This policy includes attendance at all extracurricular activities such as
band, club meetings, awards programs, ball games, field trips,
practices (i.e. drama, academic, dance) etc.
VI. Students under an order of the court who are in possession of, or
using tobacco a n d a l t e r n a t i v e n i c o t i n e , o r v a p o r r e l a t e d
p r o d u c t s , are in contempt of the court order and may be referred to
the County Attorney.
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